Fact Sheet

Children’s Bill of Rights

Currently, the United States does not have a comprehensive framework that governs the rights of the child. As a result, the essential needs of thousands of children are not met, and standards relating to the health, safety, and well-being of children are applied unevenly across jurisdictions.

The provisions in the Children’s Bill of Rights, introduced by Rep. Luis Gutiérrez (D-IL), Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA), and Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA), are centered around three core areas that are paramount to the healthy development of a child. Rights under each of these core areas should be considered each time decisions are made concerning children so that every child can thrive in a safe and stable environment. In addition, children are entitled to these rights regardless of their gender, class, race, ethnicity, national origin, culture, religion, immigration status, sexual orientation, or ability.